Venous Thrombosis
| Overview |
|---|
- Venous Thrombosis refers to the presence of thrombosis within any type of superficial or deep vein. When the deep veins are involved this is known as a "Deep Venous Thrombosis". When the thrombosed vein becomes inflamed this is known as "Thrombophlebitis" .
| Pathogenesis |
|---|
- Venous Thrombosis is ultimately the result of inappropriate coagulation. Consequently, any of the conditions delineated by Virchow, popularly known as Virchow's Triad, which predipose to coagulation can result in venous thrombosis (See: Thrombosis).
| Clinical Consequences |
|---|
- Overview
- The particular clinical consequences of venous thrombosis depend on the affected vessels and the potential of the thrombus to undergo embolization.
- Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT)
- DVTs occur in the deep veins, typically in the extremities, and result in congestion of upstream vasculature. Acutely, DVTs produce few clinical consequences other than perhaps some peripheral edema of the affected limb and possibly some pain. The rapid development of limb edema in an individual in a hypercoagulable state should initiate a high suspician for a DVT. The major clinical concern of DVTs is their potential to undergo thromboembolization and lead to pulmonary emboli.
- Thrombophlebitis
- Inflammation of a thrombosed vein often results in tenderness or pain in the involved tissue.